Guest of Honour 
Polar Expedition 
Optional Business Class 
Photo ambassadors 
The Explorers Club 
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
20% Ponant Bonus
20 m²
2
In the ice of the Arctic, from Greenland to Svalbard
Reykjavík - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
Dates:
25/6/2024
to
11/7/2024
days
nights on board
Transfer + Flight Longyearbyen/Paris
Through PONANT’s alliance with The Explorers Club, this voyage will feature Vickie Siegel who works at the intersection of autonomous robotics, polar research, planetary science, and cave exploration. This voyage will also feature French-speaking Explorer Club member, Mike Magidson, director of more than twenty documentaries and short films.
With the presence of Nick Rains, Australian photo ambassador.
To sail to the lands beyond the Arctic Circle is to push the boundaries of exploration in the wake of those who made discovering the polar regions their life’s mission. With humility, you will set a course for the north-east of Greenland, inaccessible to traditional ships in early summer, before cruising to Svalbard and its untouched landscapes. Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a marvel of technology, you will be amazed by the opportunities for guided exploration in these remote parts. You will progress through one of the hardest to reach areas in the Far North.
On your journey, the Ammassalik, Blosseville and Ittoqqortoormiit regions reveal mythical places associated with the history of the discovery of the Arctic – places where the names Paul-Emile Victor, Jules de Blosseville and Jean-Baptiste Charcot still resound.
To the north-east of Greenland, you will sail through the drifting ice floes of the North Pole and continue your exploration in the heart of immaculate scenery. The sea ice reveals itself in all its forms. Marvel at the subtle light changes on the ice.
Your route then leads eastward, towards Svalbard. As you progress through this polar landscape, Nordaustlandet (North East Land) will display Europe’s largest ice cap and some of its most majestic fjords. You will cross the frozen expanses of the Hinlopen Strait, where the contours of the glaciers shape the horizon, and you will get up close to monumental basalt cliffs. In the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve, classed as an Important Bird Area, the ice-cloaked arid spaces are also home to cetaceans and Svalbard reindeer.
Whether from the exterior decks of your ship, during an outing in an inflatable dinghy or a kayak, or during a hike near blue-tinged icebergs, you will have multiples opportunities to get to know this wild and stunning world a little better.
In extreme conditions, at the end of spring when ice dots the barren landscapes, these remote parts reveal themselves to travellers. Despite the harsh climate and environment, the wildlife thrives here, offering the humble and patient observer the most wonderful of rewards.
Find out more about the world of Le Commandant Charcot here!
We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice conditions. Our navigation, mainly in the fjords, will be determined by the type of ice we come across; as the fast ice must be preserved, we will take this factor into account from day to day in our itineraries. The sailing programme, outings, activities and observation of fauna cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather and ice conditions. The experiences are unique and vary from day to day and for each departure. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, while respecting safety instructions and regulations imposed by the AECO.
Ref : RL115 - CC250624
Your itinerary
Through PONANT’s alliance with The Explorers Club, this voyage will feature Vickie Siegel who works at the intersection of autonomous robotics, polar research, planetary science, and cave exploration. This...
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Your trip in detail
Our guest of honour
Vickie Siegel
"For me, this voyage with PONANT is a chance to introduce people to Greenland—a place of profound importance to me personally and as an explorer. The opportunity to share with you the stories and insight I’ve gathered there as we all experience the Arctic together on Le Commandant Charcot will be one of the highlights of my year."
Vickie Siegel
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Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
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Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
- Glazed private balcony for all our staterooms and suites
- Terrace for the Duplex suites and the Owner's suite
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 3 ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Nick Rains
Nick Rains has been a professional photographer for almost 40 years, starting off with yachting and other sports before specialising in travel and documentary work. His images have been published in book and magazines around the world and he is the author of 14 photography books. Besides his travel work, Nick is a consultant for Leica Camera AG in Germany and is also the Principal Instructor for Leica Akademie in Australia, teaching keen photographers how to create better images by taking small groups to far flung locations such as Cuba, Iceland, India, Greece, Myanmar, Namibia, Ethiopia, New Zealand and of course all over Australia.
Since 2015 Nick has travelled on many different Ponant expeditions around the globe, from the Russian Far East in the north to Antarctica in the south.
Languages spoken: English
Photo credit: ARR (All Right Reserved)
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Vickie Siegel
Vickie Siegel works at the intersection of autonomous robotics, polar research, planetary science, and cave exploration. She leverages her interdisciplinary perspective to lead expeditions with ambitious technology and research goals in challenging environments all around the globe. For over 17 years Vickie has worked with a leading field robotics team in research projects which use cold, icy environments on Earth as simulation environments for robots that will someday explore the ice-covered moons of Jupiter and Saturn. In this way, Vickie has accumulated over a year’s time in Antarctica working with underwater robotic systems to explore beneath the ice of McMurdo Sound and Lake Bonney. As part of a team of glaciologists, Vickie has run field camps on the Greenland ice sheet, documenting the rivers that form on the ice from summer ice melt and carve deep, vast ice caverns called moulins. Building on this experience and driven by a desire to experience more of the Arctic, Vickie went on to spend five continuous months in Greenland working with a small, isolated crew to maintain a US research installation through a brutal polar winter, much of it in total darkness. Aside from her passion for cold places, Vickie is also a cave explorer who works on expeditions to explore and map some of the world’s deepest cave systems, located in southern Mexico. In 2019 she led an international effort to explore and map what is believed to be the world’s largest underground lake, a water-filled cave called Dragon’s Breath, using an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle. She is the field operations manager for Stone Aerospace, one of the founders of an underwater robotics company, Sunfish, Inc., and is the proprietor of Sisu Field Solutions, a fieldwork planning and operations consultancy.
Language spoke: English
Photo credit: The Explorers Club
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board for all departures with an Expedition programme (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on Expedition cruises.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- Windbreaker – Mandatory
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
- Hiking shoes
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Mosquito repellent, anti-itch balm and mosquito head net (Greenland)
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Kayaking - Le Commandant Charcot
You will make the most of the sailing opportunities and weather and ice conditions to glide along on the clear waters or between the ice floes and get as close as possible to the immaculate nature of the poles. Supervised by licenced expert guides, you will try your hand in a kayak- a craft favoured by the Inuits for at least 4,000 years. The kayak was initially used for hunting and fishing; for you, it will be a means of making the most of your adventure on the White Continent or in the Far North.*
*with limited places available
Hiking or snowshoeing
During shore landings, depending on the ecological resilience of the biome, we will propose hikes at different levels, in the company of your experienced naturalist guides. From a simple stroll along the coast to walks lasting several hours to reach particular viewpoints or historical sites, you will make the most of the opportunities provided by the weather and ice conditions. When the itineraries allow, you’ll put on snowshoes* to set off like the explorers of old and discover areas that have barely known Man.
*with limited places available
Polar plunge
Let yourself be seduced by the unrivalled sensations of being surrounded by cold water. Weather and ice conditions willing, you will have opportunities to undertake a unique experience during a polar plunge wearing just your swimming costume, in the middle of the ice. You will be be filled with intense emotions and will fully appreciate the energy boost when warming up after the swim!*
*with limited places available
The Explorers Club
The Explorers Club was founded in New York City in 1904 by a group of the world's leading explorers of the time. It is a multidisciplinary, not-for-profit organization dedicated to scientific exploration of land, sea, air, and space. It supports science research and education and has over 3,500 members around the world. Explorers linked to the greatest discoveries, such as Neil Armstrong, Jane Goodall, Edmund Hillary or Roald Amundsen, are among its eminent members.
During this voyage, a member of The Explorers Club will provide enrichment through lectures and activities on board, at sea, and during shore visits. You will have the opportunity to engage with these agents of change throughout your journey.
Vickie Siegel
Vickie Siegel works at the intersection of autonomous robotics, polar research, planetary science, and cave exploration. She leverages her interdisciplinary perspective to lead expeditions with ambitious technology and research goals in challenging environments all around the globe. For over 17 years Vickie has worked with a leading field robotics team in research projects which use cold, icy environments on Earth as simulation environments for robots that will someday explore the ice-covered moons of Jupiter and Saturn. In this way, Vickie has accumulated over a year’s time in Antarctica working with underwater robotic systems to explore beneath the ice of McMurdo Sound and Lake Bonney. As part of a team of glaciologists, Vickie has run field camps on the Greenland ice sheet, documenting the rivers that form on the ice from summer ice melt and carve deep, vast ice caverns called moulins. Building on this experience and driven by a desire to experience more of the Arctic, Vickie went on to spend five continuous months in Greenland working with a small, isolated crew to maintain a US research installation through a brutal polar winter, much of it in total darkness. Aside from her passion for cold places, Vickie is also a cave explorer who works on expeditions to explore and map some of the world’s deepest cave systems, located in southern Mexico. In 2019 she led an international effort to explore and map what is believed to be the world’s largest underground lake, a water-filled cave called Dragon’s Breath, using an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle. She is the field operations manager for Stone Aerospace, one of the founders of an underwater robotics company, Sunfish, Inc., and is the proprietor of Sisu Field Solutions, a fieldwork planning and operations consultancy.
Language spoke: English
Photo credit: The Explorers Club
Mike Magidson
Mike Magidson is originally from the Bay Area, born at the height of the 1967 "summer of love" in Oakland, California. After getting a college degree, he immediately set off to Los Angeles where he was cast in a series of small theater productions. Unable to pay his rent with his modest actor fees, Mike took a job as an apprentice editor with one of Hollywood's top ranked trailer producers, Intralink Film Graphic Design, where he began to dream of a career as a filmmaker. Following his heart and a strong curiosity for French culture, in 1992 Mike packed up a suitcase, and moved to Paris, France. After several years editing for such reputable directors as Pan Nalin, Antoine de Maximy, and Jean-Michel Carré, in 1998 Mike borrowed a friend's camera and made his first award winning documentary, Kanada. Eleven years later, Mike has written and directed over twenty documentaries and shorts. Inuk is his first feature-length narrative film.
Languages spoken: French and English
Photo credit: The Explorers Club
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- Through PONANT’s alliance with The Explorers Club, this voyage will feature Vickie Siegel who works at the intersection of autonomous robotics, polar research, planetary science, and cave exploration. This voyage will also feature French-speaking Explorer Club member, Mike Magidson, director of more than twenty documentaries and short films.
- With the presence of Nick Rains, Australian photo ambassador.
- Explore the ice to the north-east of Greenland, inaccessible to traditional ships in this extreme season (late spring), as well as the remote lands of the Svalbard archipelago.
- Aboard Le Commandant Charcot, a polar exploration vessel opening to the exterior, take time to immerse yourself in unique moments of exploration and observation, in the silence and respect of fragile landscapes and encountered species.
- Discover Nordaustlandet (North East Land), Europe’s largest ice cap.
- Explore the Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve, the second largest protected area in Norway.
- Sail in the Hinlopen Strait, infiltrated by ice and connecting Spitsbergen to Nordaustlandet.
- The landscapes: mountains patterned with multi-coloured strata, fjords, jagged mountains, glaciers, icebergs, ice floes, sheer cliffs, polar ice cap, wild tundra.
- The wildlife: polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, Svalbard reindeer, whales, sea birds.
- Many brand-new activities*: kayaking, hiking or snowshoeing, polar plunge.
*Subject to weather and ice conditions and to sailing opportunities
Ports of Call & Excursions
25 June 2024 - Reykjavík
Embarkation 25/6/2024 from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Departure 25/6/2024 at 10:00 pm
Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.
26 June 2024 - Sailing through the Denmark Strait
Arrival 26/6/2024
Departure 26/6/2024
Lying between Greenland and Iceland, the Denmark Strait was crossed for the first time by theVikings in the late 10th century, during Erik the Red’s expeditions. In the Second World War, its waters were the theatre of a battle between the Kriegsmarine and the Royal Navy, on 24 May 1941. In the wintertime, extremely dense pack ice forms along the Greenlandic coasts and, while the Transpolar Drift sweeps icebergs along throughout the year, the strait is generally clear of ice during the summer. In the depths of the strait lies the world’s largest waterfall, an undersea cataract formed by the difference in temperature between the cold waters of the Greenland Sea and the warmer waters of the Irminger Sea. Numerous cetacean species thrive in this rich ecosystem.
27 June 2024 - Ammassalik Region
Arrival 27/6/2024
Departure 27/6/2024
Still almost unknown just a century ago, the east coast of Greenland remains the most authentic and majestic region. Here, the alpine mountains merge intimately with the sea, while the fjords are adorned with high snow-capped peaks and drifting icebergs. Follow in the wake of Captain Jean-Baptiste Charcot’s famous ship, the Pourquoi Pas?, which set off with its crew to discover Ammassalik, a small island of primitive and wild beauty where the Inuit people chose to live. The name of this island is a reference to the capelin, a small flamboyant silver coloured fish, whose presence in the thousands announces to inhabitants the return of spring. A surprising discovery in a spectacular setting.
28 June 2024 - Blosseville Coast
Arrival 28/6/2024
Departure 28/6/2024
Aboard your ship, follow in the footsteps of Jules Poret de Blosseville, a French explorer and sailor. In 1833, aboard La Lilloise, he set off to discover this isolated and unexplored part of eastern Greenland and gave French names to various sites on the coast. The adventure probably has an unfortunate outcome, since the crew was never found. This uninhabited territory, which now bears his name, lies to the south of Scoresby Sund. Surrounded by ice, icebergs and pieces of pack ice, Blosseville Coast is one of these wild and hard-to-reach places that very few people are lucky enough to explore.
29 June 2024 - Ittoqqortoormiit Region
Arrival 29/6/2024
Departure 29/6/2024
On the East coast of Greenland, in the Ittoqqortoormiit region, you will have the rare opportunity of immersing yourself in the heart of isolated scenery and exploring the beauty of its landscapes. The high alpine mountains stand out in the sky, revealing dark rock edges. The region is home to the longest fjord system in the world, Scoresby Sound. On the edge of the fjord, the eponymous village is considered one of the most remote inhabited places in the world. The colourful houses, so typical of Greenland, dot the landscape with small red, yellow and blue patches that stand out against the surrounding arid landscape. Immersing yourself in this region will allow you to discover the ancestral way of life of the last hunters of the polar region. This will be a veritable deep-dive into the lives of the Arctic’s inhabitants.
30 June 2024 3 July 2024 - Exploration of North-East Greenland
Arrival 30/6/2024
Departure 3/7/2024
Set sail for North-East Greenland to immerse yourself further and up higher in the Arctic region to explore the unexpected riches of the sea ice, where traditional ships cannot travel at this time of the year. As the light shifts and the moods of the sky change, the different states of the ice and the infinite diversity of its textures create an exceptionally stunning tableau. With patience and humility, you will sail amid the pearl-white floating cathedrals and the ice carried by the Transpolar Drift. En route, icebergs have their journey halted by ice and pressure ridges reveal their sharp edges. In the midst of this icy vastness, beauty is found in the detail and the magic of the moment. In the realm of polar bears, Le Commandant Charcot is a reassuring cocoon built for polar exploration and offers you wonderful opportunities to observe these lords of the ice when you happen upon them. You may even get the chance to admire the moving sight of a mother and her cub travelling across the immaculate icy expanse.
4 July 2024 5 July 2024 - At sea aboard Le Commandant Charcot
Arrival 4/7/2024
Departure 5/7/2024
Spend exceptional moments sailing aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s first luxury polar exploration vessel and the first PC2-class polar cruise ship capable of sailing into the very heart of the ice, on seas and oceans which the frozen conditions render inaccessible to ordinary ships. Le Commandant Charcot is fitted with oceanographic and scientific equipment selected by a committee of experts. Take advantage of the on-board lectures and opportunities for discussion with these specialists to learn more about the poles. Participate in furthering scientific research with PONANT and let us discover together what these fascinating destinations have yet to reveal to us.
6 July 2024 7 July 2024 - Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve
Arrival 6/7/2024
Departure 7/7/2024
The Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve has been protecting the northernmost and coldest part of the archipelago, Nordaustlandet (North East Land), since 1973. This vast polar desert covered by two ice caps is the second largest island in the Svalbard archipelago. Protected by the Gulf Stream, the fjords and cliffs in the west and north are home to large colonies of birds and walruses. The landscapes in the colder east and south are dominated by imposing glaciers that calve majestic icebergs in the vast Hinlopen Strait. Large colonies of thick-billed murres have taken up residence on the sheer cliffs*. You may even get the chance to see a bear or an Arctic fox roaming in the vicinity.
*depending on nesting and migration period
8 July 2024 - Sailing in the Hinlopen Strait
Arrival 8/7/2024
Departure 8/7/2024
Sailing in the Hinlopen Strait, in the heart of the Arctic Ocean, between the Norwegian islands of Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet promises an unforgettable experience. This territory of the Nordaust-Svalbard Nature Reserve offers breathtaking panoramas, with magnificent basalt formations and the ice cap stretching as far as the eye can see, diving into the sea. The shore line cut by the fjords moving inland composes a magical landscape in which icebergs float here and there, the result of the calving of the surrounding glaciers. This place, today a popular spot to observe the seabirds nesting in the enormous cliffs, polar bears and walruses, was once intrinsically linked to the history of the whalers who frequented the region from the 17th century. Indeed, it was one of them, Thijmen Jacobsz Hinlopen, then director of a Dutch whaling company, who gave the strait its name. Later on, Russian trappers, European explorers, scientists and even mountaineers roamed this region, as hostile as it is sublime.
9 July 2024 - Soraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve
Arrival 9/7/2024
Departure 9/7/2024
The Søraust-Svalbard Nature Reserve is the second largest protected area in Norway. Established in 1973, this nature conservation area stretching over more than 21,000 km2 will offer you stunning panoramas including coastal landscapes, rocky islets, mountain plateaux, vast tundra plains, and ice floes. With a little luck, you will be able to observe a wide variety of seabirds, given the site is listed as an Important Bird Area, as well as cetaceans, Svalbard reindeer, or even Arctic foxes. Among other things, Edgeoya Island is renowned for providing shelter to a number of polar bears during the breeding season.
10 July 2024 - Hornsund
Arrival 10/7/2024
Departure 10/7/2024
Nestling between millennial glaciers and carved mountains, and considered to be “the crown of Arctic Norway”, Spitsbergen is a place that never sees the night. Your ship will take you closer to this fascinating archipelago and, more particularly, the Hornsund fjord. Considered to be Svalbard’s southernmost fjord, it is especially reputed to be its most stunning: at the end of its vast bay, 8 great glaciers slowly make their way down to the sea before giving way to the many icebergs elegantly drifting along its cold and mysterious waters.
11 July 2024 - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
Arrival 11/7/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 11/7/2024 at 8:00 am
Longyearbyen is the capital of the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago, located on Svalbard’s main island, and is the northernmost territorial capital on the planet. With winter temperatures dropping to below 40°C, the landscapes of this mining town are simply breathtaking. The glaciers, the mountains stretching as far as the eye can see and the untouched nature, make you feel like you’re in completely unexplored territory.
Le Commandant Charcot
With Le Commandant Charcot, PONANT has imagined and envisaged the cruise voyage of tomorrow. The latest addition to the fleet will take you following in the footsteps of the great polar explorers in refined surroundings complete with the kind of luxury services never before offered in the farthest reaches of the southern and northern hemispheres.
The indoor swimming pool, the conservatory, the panoramic restaurant, the Blue Lagoon outdoor restaurant, the Main Lounge, the Observation Lounge, the lobby… Each of the common areas has been designed to both convey French-style discreet luxury and arouse wonder and amazement. The common thread running through all their designs is the desire to allow the light to penetrate and open everything up the extraordinary polar landscapes and scenery.
This very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by LNG has been designed with the greatest attention to detail in terms of safety and respect for the environment.
Up to 245 Guests
123 staterooms & suites
215 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Transfer + Flight Longyearbyen/Paris
For your serenity, PONANT selects a flight and organises services between the port and the airport. This package is included in your cruise fare.
Disembarkation Day - Longyearbyen/Paris
Disembarkation.
Meet and greet at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
According to the flight departure time from Longyearbyen, PONANT adapt its services or activites before your transfer to the airport in time for check-in of flight Longyearbyen/Paris selected by PONANT.
Flight Longyearbyen/Paris selected by PONANT.
Approximate flight duration: 4 h 30.
We highly recommend you stay one night in Paris after this flight.
This programme includes:
- Flight Longyearbyen/Paris selected by PONANT in economy class.
- Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- English-speaking assistance.
This programme does not include:
- Personal expenses.
- Any other service not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- Due to limited local transportation resources, waiting might be generated.
- Flight included in the programme is as of today, operated in economy class, on a European airline.
- Flight in business class is available, please contact your travel agent.
- For passengers in transit in Paris, we recommend staying one night in Paris after this flight.
- Programme and flight schedule are subject to change without prior notice.
Polar Expedition
Realise your dream of adventure in the polar regions ! Discover the icy vastness and the fauna of Antarctica (humpback whales, seals, penguins and more) or the Arctic's fjords, glaciers and icebergs in shifting colours, not to mention the polar bears, the variety of wildlife and the special moments shared with the locals. Our team of naturalist guides share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the fauna, the flora, the history of great explorations, geology and climatology. Thanks to its conscientiousness and to the responsible approach that is its hallmark, PONANT has been a leader and expert in cruises to these destinations for more than 20 years.
Optional Business Class
The Business Class option is available at an additional cost for Ponant chartered flights included in the price of the cruise.
Photo ambassadors
Sharpen your eye and capture the ephemeral! Head out to sea and develop your visual senses alongside our photo ambassadors. The on-board photo ambassadors are committed and renowned professionals who will share their passion and expertise during workshops offered on board or on shore, photography-based discussions and conferences. A recurring theme of PONANT cruises is the sharing of knowledge and culture: this serves to support and highlight our openness to the world. With the help of the photo ambassadors, you will truly participate in your exploration. Take the time to feel and to observe the world around you and keep a lasting imprint of the fleeting moments and intense emotions experienced during this cruise.
The Explorers Club
PONANT and The Explorers Club are coming together in the name of driving deeper discovery and promoting scientific enrichment among the next generation of explorers. The weeks-long expeditions will whisk travelers to the world’s most remote parts, these journeys are enriched by the participation of expert members of The Explorers Club. They will share their experiences with you during on-board conferences and will invite you to participate in their research by offering activities on board, at sea or out of the ship. These new explorers will fascinate you with their tales.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF REYKJAVIK
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Reykjavik
Meet at Keflavík international airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport and be directly transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
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Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
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English speaking assistance.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €150
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
ICELAND AT A GLANCE
PONANT converts your transfer into a restful stopover as you enjoy a relaxing day in a pleasant and comfortable setting.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight.
Group transfer from the pier to the Parliament hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton 4*, located in the heart of Reykjavik. the hotel is conveniently positioned next to the iconic Icelandic Parliament, Alþingi, and directly across from Austurvollur. Within a mere five-minute walk of Reykjavik Cathedral, the Harpa concert hall, and the city hall, making it an ideal location to explore the city's major attractions.
Check-in day-use.
In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the port of Reykjavik, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Parliament hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton 4*, captures the essence of Reykjavik in a multifaceted manner. While each aspect remains true to the Curio Collection's core values of providing comfort, sophistication, curiosity, a sense of belonging, and a unique experience.
Superior category rooms are also available, subject to availability and at an additional cost. Contact your travel agent for further informations.
Your programme includes:
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1 day-use at the four-star The Parliament hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, local standards (or similar).
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Group transfer by coach from the airport to the hotel as mentioned in the programme.
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Group transfer from the hotel to the airport as mentioned in the programme.
Your programme does not include:
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Tips and gratuities.
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All personal expenses (beverages, meals, sightseeing, etc.).
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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We recommend you bring along a small bag with a change of clothing.
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It is imperative that your flight departure details are communicated at least 30 days prior to the beginning of your cruise, in order to secure the proper private transfer.
Contact of your hotel:
Parliament hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton
Thorvaldsenstraeti 2-6,
101 Reykjavik
Iceland
Telephone number: +354 513 3000
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €1,280
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
RELAX AT THE BLUE LAGOON (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Reykjavik
Meet at Reykjavik Airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Retreat Blue lagoon 5*.
Afternoon at leisure.
Dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel.
Optional activity: Tastes of Iceland, dinner at Moss restaurant
Treat yourself to a taste immersion with the Moss restaurant cuisine, recommended by the 2020 Michelin Guide.
Reinventing the Icelandic cuisine, the chef Aggi Sverrisson will offer you a 7 courses dinner with wine paring that you could savour contemplating the volcanic horizon.
Please note: on certain date the optional activity may be operated on day 2.
Day – 2 Reykjavik
After breakfast, unwind on a full day of relaxation at the Retreat Blue Lagoon 5*. Relax amidst the geothermal wonders of Iceland. Immerse yourself in the soothing waters of the Blue Lagoon, known for its healing properties and breathtaking views.
Lunch and dinner at the hotel restaurant.
Optional activity: Wine tasting in the lava cave
Enjoy an exclusive moment by tasting the wine selection of the Moss restaurant's sommelier.
Inside this three meters deep in the earth subterranean sanctuary, surrounded by frozen-in-time lava that erupted in the year 1226, you will spend a timeless and unforgettable experience.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day – 3 Reykjavik
After breakfast and check-out, you’ll be transferred to a local restaurant.
Following lunch, venture into the heart of Reykjavik’s vibrant culture and architecture along Laugavegur Street. Stroll, shops for unique souvenir or simply revel in the local atmosphere.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Reykjavik to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of Iceland's natural wonders, the Retreat Blue Lagoon 5* stands as a beacon of indulgence and relaxation. Here, every detail has been meticulously curated to provide an unparalleled retreat experience that rejuvenates the body and soothes the soul.
Your programme includes:
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2-night accommodation in Junior Suite at the Retreat Blue Lagoon hotel, 5* local standards (or similar), breakfast included
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Meal as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea.)
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of o local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary
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Tips for the driver and local guide
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Optional activity: Wine tasting in the lava cave
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Optional activity: Tastes of Iceland, dinner at Moss restaurant
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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Official hotel check-in time is 3:00pm.
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Official hotel check-out time is 11:00am
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On certain date the optional activity “Tastes of Iceland, dinner at Moss restaurant” may be operated on day 2
Contacts of your hotel:
Retreat Blue Lagoon hotel
Nordurljosavegur 11,
240 Grindavík,
Iceland
Telephone number: +354 420 8700
Duration and order of the visit may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel document.
Total : €1,475
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
PARISIAN GETAWAY AND LUXE A LA FRANCAISE (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Enjoy an exclusiv stay at Le Meurice in Paris, after your cruise onboard Le Commandant Charcot.
Day 1 - Paris
Meet at Paris airport in the arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be transferred to the hotel Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection.
Check-in your room.
Diner is at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Days 2 and 3 – Paris
Breakfast at the hotel.
Your days are at leisure.
Option: Artist walking tour
As the hotel of astrists and thinkers, you can book in addition a series of walking tours with Le Meurice following in the footsteps of legendary artist in Paris.
Ponant has selected for you three differents paths of artists to choose: Picasso, Monet and Rodin. Theses experiences are proposed with a private guide.
Option: The Chef's Table
You will also have the option to step into a world of surprise through a private entrance and delve into the secrets of the Michelin-starred kitchen at this exclusive table.
Here, Executive Chef Amaury Bouhours will personally guide you through his exquisite menu in an intimate atmosphere, while the kitchen gracefully performs its culinary ballet before your eyes.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 – Paris
Breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out from your room.
You will be transferred from your hotel to Paris airport terminal, in time for check-in of flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Discover the luxury and elegance of Le Meurice hotel, an iconic establishment nestled in the heart of Paris. Immerse yourself in a refined ambiance while staying in sumptuous rooms, featuring exquisite furnishings for optimal comfort. Indulge in exceptional cuisine at the Michelin-starred restaurant, where talented chefs create delicious dishes. Located near renowned sites such as the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens, Le Meurice is the perfect place to explore the vibrant city. Enjoy a moment of relaxation in its exclusive spa, where the therapists will provide you with high-quality treatments for a soothing experience. From your first steps in relaxed and luxurious atmosphere of the lobby to the cosy design of your room, you will spend an outstanding stay there.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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3-nights accommodation in Superior room at Le Meurice 5* palace, breakfast included.
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Transfers as mentioned in the programme.
Your programme does not include:
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Personal expenses.
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Meals and visits during your stay.
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Optional activities.
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Early check-in.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
-
Official check-in at 3: 00 pm.
Contact of your hotel:
Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection
28 Rue de Rivoli,
75001 Paris
FRANCE
Telephone number: +33 1 44 58 10 10
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : €2,800
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
OUTBOUND FLIGHT FROM PARIS + TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF REYKJAVIK (PRE)
Total : €515
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.